1. Is the software really cloud-native or just 'cloud-washed'?

Don't be fooled by old technology dressed up as new.

Some vendors claim to have cloud software, when all they have done is a 'lift and shift' – taking their decades-old legacy system and hosting it on a remote server. This is a trap.

Why it matters:

• Old code, old problems: Moving a legacy system to the cloud doesn't fix its flaws. You can still face restrictions, slowness, and limited scale.
• Security risks: A 'lift and shift' approach fails to realise cloud security benefits and can actually introduce new vulnerabilities.

The Truth: Real cloud-native software is built from scratch specifically for the cloud. It is the only way to get the speed, agility, and security you are paying for.

'Real-time' or just eventually?

Real-time is a term some vendors abuse, but in debt collection, data lag has unintended and potentially harmful fallout.

Consequences of slow data:

Wasted effort: Agents chase customers who have already paid.

Compliance risks: Critical disclosures or vulnerability flags don't reach the agent before the call starts, leading to regulatory fines.

The test: Don't take their word for it. Ask for a live demo. Watch the system update in front of your eyes. If the journey doesn't change instantly when new data is added, it isn't real-time.

3. Are you in control, or held hostage?

If you have to book an IT slot months in advance just to change a letter template or a workflow, your system is failing you.

• The problem: Rigid, legacy systems turn simple updates into expensive, time-consuming projects. When the business moves faster than the software, you lose your competitive edge while waiting in a development queue.
• The fix: Demand low-code/no-code tools. You should be able to make routine changes instantly, without paying your vendor to do it for you.

4. Is it a platform or a patchwork?

Many vendors claim to be end-to-end but actually rely on third-party plugins for modern basics like self-service.

• The risk: Bolting applications together can disrupt customer experience and risks data getting lost. You might be a low priority for multiple vendors with different interests and contracts.
• The solution: A true single-platform solution with one vendor responsible for all your collections technology. One source of truth, no screen-swapping, and no latency.

5. Will upgrades shut you down?

Scrutinise the roadmap. Is the vendor delivering continuous, seamless improvements, or are they planning occasional "big bang" upgrades that require costly downtime?

• The Question: Ask if they use Continuous Delivery. If they still charge for 'Version 2.0' and require system downtime to install it, you are buying obsolete tech.
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Summary: Make this your last migration

Your next software migration should be the last one you ever need to do. Don't just take our word for it – grill us. Ask Flexys these hard questions. We’re ready to show you how a future-proof operation really looks.